SHEILLA FRANCIS ARDA, RRT

MEDICAL IMAGE
DISTRIBUTION, NETWORKS,
AND COMMUNICATION
NETWORK TOPOLOGY & PROTOCOLS
Network topology and protocols in radiology refer to the specific ways in which medical imaging data, such
as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, are transmitted and managed within a healthcare network. Radiology relies on
digital technology for the storage and sharing of images and patient information, and the choice of network
topology and protocols is critical to ensure efficient, secure, and reliable data exchange.

NETWORK TOPOLOGY
Network topology in radiology refers to the physical and logical layout of the
network used to connect radiology equipment, Picture Archiving and
Communication Systems (PACS), Radiology Information Systems (RIS), and
other devices used in the radiology department. Common network topologies
in radiology include:
Star Topology

In a star topology, each device is connected to a

central hub (such as a server or switch). This design is
often used in radiology networks to centralize image
storage and management.
Ring Topology

In a ring topology, devices are connected in a circular

manner. However, this is less common in radiology
networks due to the potential for network interruptions
if one device or cable fails.
Bus Topology

In a bus topology, devices are connected to a single

cable. It's less common in modern radiology networks
due to its limitations in terms of scalability and fault
tolerance.
Mesh Topology

A mesh topology involves each device being connected

to every other device. It offers high redundancy but can
be complex and expensive.
Redundancy in a network refers to the presence of backup components, paths, or
resources that can be used in the event of a failure or outage to maintain network
availability, reliability, and fault tolerance.
NETWORK TOPOLOGY & PROTOCOLS
Network topology and protocols in radiology refer to the specific ways in which medical imaging data, such
as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, are transmitted and managed within a healthcare network. Radiology relies on
digital technology for the storage and sharing of images and patient information, and the choice of network
topology and protocols is critical to ensure efficient, secure, and reliable data exchange.

Network Protocols
Network protocols are the set of rules and conventions that govern how
data is transmitted and received in a network. In radiology, specific
protocols are chosen to ensure the secure and efficient transmission of
medical images and patient data. Some key protocols used in radiology
networks include:
DICOM (Digital Imaging and
Communications in Medicine)

DICOM is the standard protocol used in radiology for

the communication and sharing of medical images and
related information. It ensures interoperability between
different imaging devices and PACS systems.
HL7 (Health Level Seven)

HL7 is used for the exchange of patient information

and clinical data within healthcare systems. It
complements DICOM by handling patient data and
administrative information.
TCP/IP (Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol)

TCP/IP is a fundamental protocol suite for the Internet

and is used for network communication in healthcare,
including radiology.
HTTP/HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer
Protocol/Secure)

These protocols are often used to access radiology

reports and images through web-based applications.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

FTP can be used to transfer radiology images and data

between different systems or facilities.
Network security is a paramount concern in radiology,
and healthcare institutions need to implement
appropriate security measures, including encryption,
access controls, and compliance with HIPAA (Health
Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)
regulations to protect patient data and images. The
choice of topology and protocols plays a crucial role in
achieving the required level of security and
performance.
NETWORK STRUCTURE AND SYSTEM
COMPONENTS IN RADIOLOGY
In radiology, network structure and system components play a critical role in the efficient and secure
management of medical imaging data, patient information, and the seamless operation of the radiology
department. Below, I'll outline the key components and the network structure commonly found in radiology
systems:

Network Structure in Radiology:

Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS):
PACS is a central component of radiology networks. It serves as the
primary storage and retrieval system for medical images. The network
structure typically revolves around PACS, with various components
connecting to it.
Radiology Information System (RIS)

RIS is used for managing patient information,

scheduling appointments, and tracking radiology
procedures. RIS is integrated with PACS to link patient
data with specific imaging studies.
Digital Imaging and Communications
in Medicine (DICOM)
DICOM is a standardized protocol used for the
exchange and transmission of medical images and
related data. It ensures interoperability between
different imaging devices, such as X-ray machines,
MRIs, and CT scanners.
Health Level Seven (HL7)

HL7 is used for the exchange of patient information

and clinical data within the healthcare network. It
complements DICOM by handling patient data,
scheduling information, and other administrative
details.
Radiology Modalities

These are the imaging devices like X-ray machines, MRI

scanners, and CT scanners. They capture the medical
images and use DICOM to transmit the images and
associated data to the PACS.
Workstations

Radiologists use workstations to access and interpret

medical images stored in the PACS. These workstations
are equipped with specialized radiology software for
image viewing and analysis.
Radiology Reports

Radiologists generate reports based on their

interpretation of medical images. These reports are
stored electronically and associated with the patient's
records.
Storage Systems

High-capacity storage systems, including Network

Attached Storage (NAS) or Storage Area Networks
(SAN), are used to store the large volume of
radiological images and data.
NETWORK STRUCTURE AND SYSTEM
COMPONENTS IN RADIOLOGY
In radiology, network structure and system components play a critical role in the efficient and secure
management of medical imaging data, patient information, and the seamless operation of the radiology
department. Below, I'll outline the key components and the network structure commonly found in radiology
systems:

System Components in Radiology:

PACS Server
The PACS server is the central component responsible for receiving,
storing, and managing medical images. It uses DICOM to communicate
with imaging modalities, and it often integrates with the RIS for patient
data.
RIS Server

The RIS server manages patient scheduling,

registration, and reporting. It also interfaces with the
PACS server to link patient information with specific
imaging studies.
DICOM Gateway

A DICOM gateway facilitates communication between

imaging modalities (which may use various versions of
DICOM) and the PACS server by translating DICOM
messages as needed.
Image Viewing Workstations

Radiologists use specialized workstations equipped

with diagnostic-quality monitors and radiology
software to view and interpret images. They can also
access patient information and reports.
Web-Based Access

Many radiology systems provide web-based access to

images and reports, enabling authorized users to
access the system remotely.
Storage Devices

High-capacity storage devices are essential for storing

and archiving the growing volume of medical images.
Redundant storage configurations are common for
data integrity.
Security and Access Control

Radiology systems incorporate security measures to

protect patient data and images, such as access
controls, encryption, and compliance with healthcare
data security standards like HIPAA.
Backup and Disaster Recovery

Implementing robust backup and disaster recovery

solutions ensures that data can be restored in the
event of system failures or unforeseen disasters.
Integration Engines

Integration engines facilitate the exchange of data

between various components in the radiology network,
ensuring seamless communication between RIS, PACS,
EMR (Electronic Medical Records), and other systems.
Communication Infrastructure

The network structure relies on a robust communication

infrastructure that includes switches, routers, and
cabling to ensure reliable data transmission.
The efficient functioning of radiology systems is crucial
for accurate diagnosis and patient care. Implementing a
well-designed network structure and reliable system
components is essential for the effective management
of radiological data and the delivery of high-quality
healthcare services.
MEDICAL IMAGE DATA TRANSFERS
Medical image data transfers are a critical aspect of healthcare, enabling the sharing, storage, and analysis
of medical images such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds. The efficient and secure transfer of
medical image data is essential for accurate diagnosis and patient care. Here's an overview of the key
considerations and methods for transferring medical image data:

Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine

(DICOM)
DICOM is the standard protocol for the exchange and transmission of medical
images and related data. It provides a standardized format for images and
metadata, ensuring interoperability among different imaging devices and software
systems.
DICOM Over the Internet

DICOM images and data can be transferred over the

internet using DICOM Web Services (DICOMweb) or
other secure transport mechanisms.
Picture Archiving and
Communication System (PACS)
PACS is a central component in the management of
medical image data. It stores, retrieves, and distributes
medical images and associated information.
PACS uses DICOM to receive and transmit images, making
it the primary hub for image transfers within a healthcare
facility.
Health Information Exchange (HIE)

HIEs facilitate the exchange of medical information,

including images, between different healthcare
organizations, such as hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic
centers.
HIEs often use standardized protocols, including DICOM, to
ensure compatibility.
Teleradiology

Teleradiology allows radiologists to remotely interpret

images from a different location, which often involves
sending medical images electronically for review and
reporting.
Secure and high-speed internet connections are crucial for
teleradiology image transfers.
Cloud-Based Solutions

Cloud-based medical imaging platforms offer scalable and

cost-effective solutions for image storage and sharing.
Images can be uploaded and downloaded securely from
the cloud.
Cloud providers typically ensure data security and
compliance with healthcare regulations.
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

VPNs provide a secure and encrypted connection for the

transfer of medical images over public networks. They are
essential for protecting patient data during transmission.
Encryption

Medical image data should be encrypted during transmission

to protect patient privacy and comply with healthcare data
security standards like HIPAA.
Mobile Health (mHealth) Apps

Some healthcare providers use mobile apps to capture and

transmit medical images. These apps should adhere to security
and privacy standards.
Data Compression

Compression algorithms can be applied to reduce the size of

image data for faster transmission, while maintaining diagnostic
quality.
Redundancy and Backup

Implementing redundancy in data transfers ensures that

images are not lost due to network failures. Backup systems
can be used for data recovery in case of unforeseen events.
Vendor-Neutral Archives (VNA)

VNAs store medical images and data in a standardized,

vendor-independent format, making it easier to transfer data
between different systems and healthcare facilities.
Data Integrity and Verification

Implement mechanisms to verify the integrity of transferred

data to ensure that the images are not corrupted during
transmission.
 The secure and efficient transfer of medical image data
is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. Healthcare
organizations must prioritize data integrity, privacy, and
compliance with regulatory standards while using
technology and protocols that best suit their specific
needs and infrastructure.
INTERNET SERVICES IN RADIOLOGY
Internet services in radiology play a crucial role in modern healthcare by facilitating the efficient
transmission and exchange of medical images, patient data, and reports. Radiology relies on various
internet-based services to ensure prompt and accurate diagnosis, as well as to streamline administrative
and clinical processes. Here are some key internet services used in radiology:

Picture Archiving and Communication System

(PACS)
PACS is a comprehensive internet-based service that enables healthcare
providers to store, manage, and share medical images over the internet.
Radiologists and other authorized healthcare professionals can access and
interpret images remotely through secure connections.
Radiology Information System (RIS)

RIS, integrated with the internet, provides services for

scheduling appointments, tracking patient data, and managing
administrative tasks related to radiology services. It can
facilitate the seamless transfer of patient information to PACS.
Teleradiology

Teleradiology services leverage the internet to transmit medical

images and reports from one location to another, allowing
remote radiologists to interpret images. This is especially useful
for after-hours or off-site coverage.
Cloud-Based Solutions

Cloud services offer scalable and cost-effective storage and

access to radiology data and images. Radiology images and
data can be securely stored in the cloud, providing easy access
to authorized users from anywhere with an internet connection.
Telehealth and Telemedicine

The internet facilitates telehealth services, which can include

radiology consultations and remote image viewing for primary
care physicians and specialists. These services use secure
video conferencing and image sharing to provide patient care
remotely.
eHealth and Health Information
Exchange (HIE)
Internet-based health information exchange networks enable
the secure sharing of patient records, including radiology
images, between different healthcare providers and
organizations. This helps in comprehensive patient care and
minimizes redundancy in imaging procedures.
Secure File Transfer and VPNs

To ensure the privacy and security of sensitive patient data and

images, Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and secure file transfer
services are used for transmitting radiology information over
the internet.
Mobile Health (mHealth) Applications

Mobile apps with internet connectivity can allow healthcare

professionals to access radiology images and reports on mobile
devices, improving accessibility and decision-making.
Second Opinion Services

Internet-based second opinion services enable patients and

healthcare providers to send radiology images and reports to
experts or specialists for additional analysis and
recommendations.
Data Analytics and Artificial
Intelligence (AI)

The internet is used to transmit image data to AI algorithms and

data analytics platforms for advanced image processing,
pattern recognition, and data-driven insights to assist in
diagnosis and treatment planning.
Video Conferencing

Internet-based video conferencing services are used for case

discussions, consultations, and collaborations among
radiologists, referring physicians, and specialists, allowing for
real-time communication and image sharing.
Patient Portals

Online patient portals offer internet-based access to radiology

reports, images, and related health information, allowing
patients to view their own medical records and images.
 It's crucial for healthcare providers to ensure the
security and privacy of patient data and images when
using internet services in radiology. Compliance with
healthcare data security standards such as HIPAA
(Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) is
essential to protect patient confidentiality and data
integrity.
WEB APPLICATIONS, WEB SERVICE AND
CLIENT/SERVER DISTRIBUTED COMPUTING
IN RADIOLOGY

Web applications, web services, and client/server distributed computing play

significant roles in radiology by enhancing the sharing, management, and
accessibility of medical images, patient data, and diagnostic information. Here's
how these technologies are applied in radiology:
Web Applications in Radiology

PACS Web Access: Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) often
offer web-based access to radiology images and reports. Radiologists and other
authorized users can securely view and interpret images through a web browser
from virtually anywhere with an internet connection.
RIS and EMR Portals: Radiology Information Systems (RIS) and Electronic Medical
Records (EMR) systems often have web-based portals. These portals allow
authorized users, including clinicians and radiologists, to access patient data,
schedule appointments, and retrieve radiology reports.
Web Applications in Radiology

Telehealth and Telemedicine Platforms: Web-based telehealth and telemedicine

applications enable remote consultations and diagnostic services. Radiologists
can communicate with referring physicians and patients over video conferencing,
viewing images in real-time.
Cloud-Based Radiology Solutions: Cloud-based applications allow the storage
and access of radiology images and reports over the internet. They often come
with web interfaces for users to access data from various devices.
Web Services in Radiology
DICOM Web Services (DICOMweb): DICOMweb is an emerging standard for
exchanging medical images and related information using web technologies. It
enables web-based retrieval and storage of DICOM objects, making it easier to
integrate various systems and applications.
HL7 Web Services: Health Level Seven (HL7) web services allow the exchange of
patient data, clinical information, and radiology reports among healthcare systems,
helping to streamline the flow of information.
RESTful Web Services: Representational State Transfer (REST) is a popular
architectural style for web services. In radiology, RESTful services can be used to
create applications that access, share, and process radiology data.
Client/Server Distributed Computing in
Radiology

PACS Architecture: PACS systems are typically based on client/server

architecture. The PACS server stores and manages the medical images, while
client workstations, often distributed throughout a healthcare facility, access and
retrieve these images for interpretation and analysis.
Teleradiology Services: Teleradiology leverages client/server distributed
computing to transmit images and reports from one location to another. Remote
radiologists access images through client workstations for interpretation.
Client/Server Distributed Computing in
Radiology
Distributed Processing: Radiology applications may use distributed computing to
perform resource-intensive tasks, such as image reconstruction, post-processing,
or artificial intelligence (AI) analysis. This approach can distribute the workload
across multiple servers for faster results.
Integration Engines: Integration engines and middleware are used to facilitate
communication and data exchange between different components and systems
within radiology, including PACS, RIS, EMR, and other healthcare applications. They
play a vital role in client/server distributed computing.
 The use of web applications, web services, and client/server
distributed computing in radiology enhances collaboration,
accessibility, and the overall efficiency of healthcare services.
These technologies help ensure that healthcare professionals
have timely access to the information and tools they need for
accurate diagnoses and patient care. It's crucial to implement
security measures and adhere to regulatory standards to
protect patient data and maintain confidentiality.
ENTERPRISE COMPUTING FOR MEDICAL
IMAGING INFORMATICS

Enterprise computing for medical imaging informatics refers to the use of

advanced information technology and computational systems to manage,
process, store, and distribute medical images and associated data within a
healthcare organization or across multiple facilities. The goal is to improve the
efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility of medical imaging information while
ensuring data security and compliance with healthcare regulations. Here are key
aspects of enterprise computing in medical imaging informatics:
ENTERPRISE COMPUTING FOR MEDICAL
IMAGING INFORMATICS
DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine):
DICOM is the standard protocol for the exchange and transmission of medical images and related
data. It ensures interoperability between different imaging devices and systems.
DICOMweb has become increasingly important, as it provides web-based access to DICOM images
and services, enabling seamless integration with PACS and other systems.
Cloud-Based Solutions:
Cloud-based platforms offer scalable and cost-effective solutions for storing and accessing
medical images and informatics data. They support a distributed and collaborative approach to
healthcare imaging.
Cloud providers ensure data security and regulatory compliance, making it easier for healthcare
organizations to offload storage and computing needs.
ENTERPRISE COMPUTING FOR MEDICAL
IMAGING INFORMATICS
PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System):
PACS is a core component of enterprise computing for medical imaging. It serves as the central
system for the storage and management of medical images (e.g., X-rays, MRIs, CT scans) and
associated data.
PACS provides web-based access to images, allowing authorized users to view and interpret
images from various locations within the healthcare enterprise.
RIS (Radiology Information System):
RIS is used to manage patient information, radiology scheduling, and administrative functions. It
integrates with PACS to associate patient data with specific imaging studies.
Integration with Electronic Medical Records (EMR) systems streamlines access to patient history
and clinical information.
ENTERPRISE COMPUTING FOR MEDICAL
IMAGING INFORMATICS
Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI):
Enterprise computing enables the integration of AI and data analytics tools for image processing,
pattern recognition, and decision support.
AI algorithms can assist radiologists by automating routine tasks, flagging anomalies, and improving
the accuracy and efficiency of diagnoses.
Interoperability and Health Information Exchange (HIE):
Enterprise computing focuses on achieving interoperability by connecting various healthcare
systems and allowing seamless sharing of medical imaging information.
Health Information Exchange (HIE) networks enable the secure exchange of patient records,
including radiology images, between different healthcare providers and organizations.
ENTERPRISE COMPUTING FOR MEDICAL
IMAGING INFORMATICS
Security and Compliance:
Robust security measures, including encryption, access controls, and audit trails, are essential
to protect patient data and ensure compliance with healthcare regulations like HIPAA.
Security information and event management (SIEM) systems help monitor and respond to
security incidents.
Mobile Access and Telehealth:
Enterprise computing supports mobile access to medical imaging informatics, allowing
authorized users to view images and data on tablets and smartphones.
Telehealth services use this infrastructure to provide remote consultations and second
opinions.
ENTERPRISE COMPUTING FOR MEDICAL
IMAGING INFORMATICS
Disaster Recovery and Redundancy:
Implementing disaster recovery plans and redundancy mechanisms is critical to
ensure the availability and integrity of medical imaging data in the event of
hardware failures or unforeseen disasters.
Integration Engines and Middleware:
Middleware and integration engines facilitate communication and data exchange
between various components and systems within a healthcare enterprise, ensuring
that data flows seamlessly.
 Effective enterprise computing for medical imaging
informatics optimizes the delivery of healthcare services,
reduces errors, and enhances patient care. It leverages
technology to provide healthcare professionals with the tools
and data they need for making informed decisions and
improving patient outcomes.